PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — National Coming Out Day, Oct. 11, is quickly approaching, and the city is gearing up for a top-tier celebration in the Gayborhood. The weekend of festivities will echo support for the LGBTQ community in recognition of identity, inclusion and equality for all.
“We want everyone out in the streets celebrating,” says Tyrell Brown, executive director of LGBTQ nonprofit GALAEI, which is organizing a weekend of glitz, glitter and purposeful partying.
On National Coming Out Day, LGBTQ communities across the country will shine a light on freedom of identity and equal rights.
“Celebrating LGBTQIA+ visibility and the power and love,” Brown said. “It’s a very important time for us.”
The theme this year is “OurFest, Our Future.” Saturday, Oct. 12, will feature a parade with floats, music, walking groups and announcements going down Market Street.
“It’s the second annual National Coming Out Day parade,” Brown said. “I think it was the first in the country last year. So we’re really excited to bring it back a second time.”
On Sunday, Oct 13, from noon to 6 p.m., the Gayborhood will host a street festival with live music, dance parties, food and resource tables lining the streets, offering access to information on topics from housing to health care.
With less than a month to go until Election Day, Brown also wants the event to be an opportunity to encourage people to register to vote.
And something new this year: the LUV Gardens.
“LUV is an acronym, standing for legacy, unity and vice,” said Brown — but he says he won’t give away the secret. Anyone who’s curious will have to join the festival to learn more.